Linde Gases has launched the MAPAX® LD, a pioneering technology to detect defects in modified atmosphere packaging (MAP).
MAPAX® LD, standing for MAPAX® Leak Detection, is a high-speed, non-destructive, in-line unit which uses food-grade hydrogen gas in place of visual or manual water-based testing to identify faulty MAP packaging.
The majority of food packaging, which is hermetically sealed using MAP technology, has traditionally been only sample tested for integrity rather than each individual package being evaluated. The randomness of the sample method has meant that when a defective package is discovered, the entire batch being processed since the last check has to either be re-packaged or disposed of.
Faulty food packaging, such as poor sealing, food caught in between packaging seals, tears or even pin-sized holes, can lead to increased production costs for food packager and reduced shelf life, spoilage and customer complaints for the food retailer. In serious cases, large batches of faulty packaging can even lead to potential financial penalties for food packagers and risks to consumer safety.
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